Pallas is a unique and distinctive female given name with an interesting history and meaning behind it. Originating from ancient Greek mythology, Pallas was the surname of Athena, the goddess of wisdom, courage, and strategic warfare. In fact, the name Pallas is derived from the Greek word "pallastes," which means "of Athena."
In Greek mythology, Athena herself was known as Pallas Athena after she accidentally killed her friend Pallantius during a wrestling match. To honor their friendship, Athena took on his surname and became known as Pallas Athena. This story highlights the importance of wisdom, strategy, and courage in ancient Greek culture.
The name Pallas gained popularity during the Renaissance period when artists frequently depicted scenes from Greek mythology. It has since been used sparingly throughout history but has never become widespread or common.
Today, Pallas remains an uncommon yet elegant choice for a girl's name. Its unique sound and rich historical background make it a memorable option for parents looking for something distinctive and meaningful. While it may not be as familiar as some other names, those who bear the name Pallas can take pride in its fascinating origins and powerful association with the goddess Athena.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Pallas has seen varying popularity in the United States over the past few decades. The highest number of births with the name Pallas occurred in recent years, with 11 babies named Pallas born in 2015 and another 6 in both 2016 and 2023. However, there were periods where the popularity of the name significantly decreased, such as between 1969 and 2000 when only a handful of births occurred each year.
Overall, from 1969 to 2023, a total of 91 babies have been named Pallas in the United States. This shows that while the name may not be one of the most popular choices, it has still been given to a considerable number of children over time. It's interesting to observe how the popularity of names can fluctuate over decades, and these statistics provide insight into the trend of the name Pallas in the U.S.